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Vertonghen's expected absence has been downgraded from an initial 10 weeks to just six weeks now, but at a crucial point in the season, Pochettino could be tempted to bring in someone of Ranocchia's experience.

Having played for the Italian national team under current Chelsea Antonio Conte, he can also offer insight into how the Blues play and would be able to slot into a back three.

Ranocchia has been capped 21 times by Italy (Photo by Claudio Villa/Getty Images)

What is he known for?

Having started his career as an attacking midfielder, Ranocchia is known for being comfortable with the ball at his feet. He is able to play it out from the back and would not be out of place in Tottenham's passing game.

But a 28-year-old centre-back isn't available mid-season if he doesn't have some flaws, and Ranocchia has a few. He can be a bit careless in possession at times and his decision-making can be erratic when he is pressured.

Additionally, he lacks the pace to recover from these mistakes against top-class opposition.

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Ranocchia could be available for just £5m (Photo credit should read JOHANNES EISELE/AFP/Getty Images)

Would he arrive in January?

It seems in everyone's interests to get Ranocchia out of Milan as soon as possible. His agent has apparently held talks with West Ham about a potential move, and he has been linked with so many different clubs that it is clear he is being shopped around.

While fitness may be an issue if he does come to Spurs, it seems unlikely that Inter would delay the move at all.